A suggestion for a future article (to add to the hundreds of other ideas you probably already have on your back burners!)

Diagnostic tests that can be done at home that docs use during their clinical exams to pinpoint likely causes for the back pain. A couple books I found described several tests (like the straight leg lift test and the lasegue test) that are simply done, some with the assistance of another, that helped me eliminate a lot of uncertainty and fear. Some of us just can't afford to go to the doctor. It's helpful that you point out that surgery is only immediately necessary if there are cauda Equina syndrome symptoms, and that the myriad of other causes of back pain are all usually treatable by following the rebuild program. But it's helpful to have more than a vague idea of what's happening in there.

I've considered doing an article on self-diagnostics because, you're right, there are some things you can check yourself. Definately a good suggestion and I'll add it to the list.

I do have to be careful with how far I go advising people in treating themselves. I always have to weigh everything I write against the possibility that what I say might be misunderstood by someone or would be beyond their capabilities.

That's why I always try to emphasize that it's still important to see a real doctor at least once to make sure what your dealing with isn't serious.

I just wish I could get to people before they spend a lot of money on multiple trips to chiropractors or other quasi-therapists. Most of the time, by the time people find my website they've already spent hundreds of dollars needlessly... and now they can't afford another trip to yet another doctor... even if it was the one they should have seen in the first place.

Thanks for the suggestion. Feedback like that helps me to know what you guys feel is important.

Yes, Dean, that's just what happened: spent $300 getting injured by a chiropractor. Went lookin' last week for a GP doc just to make sure I wasn't fooling myself about my progress - they want $100 down cash and won't even give you a ballpark estimate how much more they'll want. Thank God for the info here!!

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